The Inaugural Celebrity Classic teed off in spectacular fashion at Newport Beach Country Club this week, setting the stage for an exciting week of golf at the Hoag Classic. The star-studded event wasn’t just about great golf—it was about coming together for a meaningful cause: raising funds for the Southern California Fire Relief and the Newport Beach Fire Department.
Celebrities and athletes from various backgrounds hit the course, bringing competitive energy and camaraderie to the fairways. From the opening drive to the final putt, the atmosphere was electric as participants showcased their skills and shared a few laughs along the way. The blend of serious competition and lighthearted fun made for a perfect kickoff to one of the most anticipated weeks in Southern California golf.
The event’s purpose was clear—to give back to the community. With Southern California often facing the devastating effects of wildfires, the funds raised during the Hoag Celebrity Classic will provide critical support and resources to both the Southern California Fire Relief and the Newport Beach Fire Department. The generosity and support from participants and sponsors reflected the strong sense of community that defines the Hoag Classic.
Our Editor-in-Chief, Gabo, caught up with several of the celebrities on the course, including Ryan Sheckler and Matt Barkley. Sheckler shared his thoughts on giving back through sports, while Barkley, a Newport Beach native and former USC quarterback, spoke about how meaningful it was to play in his hometown for such an important cause.
The Hoag Celebrity Classic set the tone for what’s shaping up to be an incredible week at the Hoag Classic. As the tournament officially kicks off on Friday, fans can expect top-tier golf, great energy, and more opportunities to give back to the community.
👉 Check out the full recap video below! 🎥 See the highlights, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments from this unforgettable event:
👉 Want to be part of the action? Tickets for the Hoag Classic are still available—don’t miss your chance to experience one of Southern California’s premier golf events.
📸 Photos provided by Athletes First—thank you for capturing the incredible moments!
About the Hoag Classic
The Hoag Classic is one of the premier events on the PGA TOUR Champions schedule, attracting some of the biggest names in professional golf each year. Held annually at Newport Beach Country Club, the tournament raises millions of dollars for Hoag Hospital and other local charities. Its long-standing tradition of giving back to the community has made it a staple event in Southern California’s golf scene.
Beyond the competition, the Hoag Classic is a week-long celebration of golf and philanthropy, combining world-class play with a mission to support healthcare and wellness initiatives in the region. The addition of the Celebrity Classic this year further highlights the tournament’s growing impact and commitment to bringing people together for a cause.
About Newport Beach Country Club
Nestled along the stunning Southern California coast, Newport Beach Country Club is one of the most prestigious private golf clubs in the country. Known for its picturesque ocean views and immaculately maintained course, it provides a challenging yet accessible experience for golfers of all skill levels.
The club’s rich history dates back over 60 years, and it has been the proud host of the Hoag Classic since 1998. The combination of world-class facilities and a welcoming atmosphere makes it the ideal setting for high-profile events like the Hoag Classic and the inaugural Celebrity Classic. The staff and grounds crew at Newport Beach Country Club once again proved why it’s one of the best venues in the game, ensuring the event ran flawlessly from start to finish.
Stay tuned for more updates and coverage from the Hoag Classic as the action unfolds!
